Thomas W. Pheil

Thomas W. Pheil Sr., a lifelong resident of St. Petersburg, FL, passed away peacefully on

February 14, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on April 1, 1937, at Mound Park Hospital, Tommy

was the beloved son of Clarence and Eleanor Pheil, both of whom preceded him in death.

A man of adventure and innovation, Tommy hailed from a pioneering family—his grandfather,

A.C. Pheil, made history as the first paying passenger on a commercial airline. Tommy

embraced this spirit of exploration throughout his life, always seeking new horizons and

challenges. A proud graduate of St. Petersburg High School, he excelled as a swimmer, making

his mark on the school's swim team.

His remarkable career was as varied as his talents. From his early days as a house mover to his

later years as a skilled craftsman, Tommy’s passion for restoring vintage cars and wooden boats

became widely known. As a marine boat builder, his creations were marked by ingenuity and

precision. Tommy’s hands were never still—he was always creating, restoring, or dreaming up

his next project. A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, Tommy’s love of motorsports was equally

strong. He was a dedicated fan of race cars, attending the iconic Sebring and Daytona races

from 1965 onward. His appreciation for speed, craftsmanship, and the thrill of competition was

a lifelong passion. In his later years, he developed a deep love for gardening, tending to his

plants with the same care and attention to detail that he devoted to every other aspect of his life.

Tommy was a sailor and lifelong member of the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, where he was

cherished by all who knew him. His warm, easygoing personality and his generous spirit made

him a beloved figure among friends, family, and peers. Tommy's legacy is one of adventure,

innovation, and a deep love for those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of all

who were fortunate enough to have crossed his path.

Tommy is survived by his sons, Tommy (Regina) and Scotty (Joanna), and his grandchildren,

Christina (Angel) and Kemper. He is also survived by his brothers, Peter (Wendy) and David

(Carlyn), along with many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

He leaves behind a legacy filled with love, exploration, and lifelong passions, a legacy that will

continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

Thomas W. Pheil Obituary